Vehicle features can make seniors safer drivers

February 22, 2013

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data shows that in 2010 there were approximately 40 million U.S. residents who were aged 65 years or older, and about 34 million of those people were licensed drivers. While it is encouraging that more people are remaining mobile as they age, senior drivers may have physical conditions that limit their abilities to drive as safely as they did when they were younger. While "smart features" available on vehicles to make all drivers more comfortable can help address these conditions, a survey conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found only one in 10 senior drivers has vehicle with smart features to address physical limitations. Seniors without these smart features may be increasing their chances of being involved in a motor vehicle accident.

Leg pain

It is not uncommon for people to develop pain or limited range of motion in their hips, knees and legs as they age. Many people also experience decreased muscle strength as time passes. This can present difficulties for people when trying to drive. This pain can make it difficult for drivers to reach or press their vehicles' accelerators and brake pedals. As a result, it may take them longer to brake or accelerate as necessary to avoid an auto accident.

Some vehicle features that can help drivers with leg issues include:
- Six-way powered seats so drivers can adjust their position for optimum comfort level and ease of reaching the pedals
- Adjustable accelerator and brake pedals

Upper body problems

Many older people experience pain or stiffness in their necks and shoulders, as well as decreased muscle strength in their arms. Arthritis in the hands is also a common condition in seniors. Pain or weakness that limits a driver's upper body range of motion can interfere with the driver's ability to check mirrors and blind spots, as well as the capability to steer the vehicle to avoid car accidents. Hand pain can make it difficult for drivers to turn on windshield wipers to maintain a clear field of view while driving.

Vehicle features that can assist drivers with upper body pain include:
- Steering wheels that tilt and telescope
- Wide-angle mirrors that can eliminate the need to turn to check for blind spots
- Thick steering wheels that require less wrist strength to grip
- Automatic rain sensors
- Large rear windows that allow for more visibility of what is behind the vehicle in the rear view mirror

Vision problems

Vision decreases as people age. Some vision issues that develop with age are not fixed with corrective lenses. Many people have trouble focusing after seeing a bright flash of light, such as when another vehicle's headlights hit a driver's rear view mirror. Others suffer from glaucoma, decreased night vision or problems with depth perception.

Automobile features that can assist with vision issues include:
- Rearview mirrors that automatically dim in bright light
- Glare-reducing side mirrors
- Instrument panels with high-contrast lighting and large displays

Talk to a lawyer

If a driver knows he or she has limitations, the driver should take steps to compensate for them so others on the road are not at risk. If you have been involved in an auto accident caused by another driver, speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney who can help you recover just and proper compensation.

Article provided by Marcus & Mack
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